A crackdown on sales of knives to under-18s is being carried out in Dewsbury and Batley.

Police and trading standards officers are carrying out test buys in shops around the area.

Retailers caught selling potentially dangerous weapons to teenagers will be formally interviewed and referred to the Crown Prosecution Service.

Det Con Kelvin Lecomber believes these kinds of operations will make a difference.

He said: “People who do not sell dangerous weapons illegally have nothing to fear.

“We are not trying to catch shopkeepers out; we are simply ensuring that young people are not able to buy these items with ease and subsequently use them for what can ultimately lead to deadly consequences.’’

To report the illegal sale of knives phone Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506 or contact the police in confidence via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.